Resources To Start Collecting
Depending upon your teaching experience, you probably already have a stash of bits and bobs in your storeroom; if not, it is wise to start collecting now.
Resources that are probably not provided by your school but would be beneficial to have in your classroom;
plastic containers from your takeaway. These can be used to store lots of different things
egg cartons for when painting
collection of newspapers and magazines for art
empty food boxes or packages for your class shop. Great when learning about money in Maths or for developmental activity playtime in Kindergarten
shells from the beach for art, maths or the sensory table
old stamps come in handy for when teaching letter writing or if you have a mailbox in your classroom
wall borders to decorate your classroom
plastic tablecloths to cover the tables when painting
spot dots to allocate students a spot for sitting on the carpet. Especially good for the younger years
pegs to hand artwork in the room
collection of stamps, stickers and certificates to celebrate achievements and for positive reinforcement
chalk textas to write messages on the windows
form of getting students attention such as a bell, tambourine or xylophone
pencil tubs particularly if you have the younger years without pencil cases
most fancy art supplies - googly eyes, wool, feathers, straws etc.
whistle for sport and fitness time
lanyard to hang your classroom keys from
For upcoming science or art projects, I like to ask families to start collecting or supply these items from home. Parents are usually happy to help out. However, don’t expect each child to bring something in, always have your own supply for those who have forgotten, or simply didn’t give the note to their parents.
What are things that you buy or bring from home for your classroom that are not generally provided by your school? Or is there something that your school does provide that surprises you? We would love it if you joined the conversation and left a comment below.